Alphabeasts

July 31, 2023
No ID is required, but readers are asked to take the Monsterlovers Oath before being granted members’ clearance to Monsterlovers HQ, and a peek at its classified, top-secret files, in this monstrous abecedarian. Before the reader joins their number, the Monsterlovers—a crew of smiling kids portrayed with an array of skin tones who carry folders, cameras, or walkie-talkies—introduce brief profiles of 26 mythical creatures, as compiled by the “international organization in charge of researching and protecting monsters from around the world.” These range from the Agogwe, found in East African jungles and designated “Hairiest Monster,” to the Slovakian Firebird Zhar-ptitsa, voted “Cutest Monster.” Each critter’s lighthearted dossier includes a physical description and location, an interesting fact, and a danger level, as well as special distinguishing traits (Sheepsquatch, for example, is “smelliest”). Quintanilla’s predominantly cheery cast—a rainbow of fur, fangs, scales, horns, and wings—provides a solidly global accounting and is sure to encourage deeper investigation, aided by a map, tips, and a QR code. Ages 4–7.

July 15, 2023
A worldwide, alphabetical presentation of cryptids from the files of Monsterlovers Headquarters. The "professional creature curators," who are dedicated to researching and safeguarding mythical monsters, provide readers with access to their top-secret files, arranged from A to Z. From the North American Bigfoot to the Chinese Qilin to the Central African Olitiau, a wide range of featured beasts is covered. Each write-up includes height, weight, a description, an interesting fact, and the creature's "danger level." Some creatures are labeled with superlatives ("hairiest monster" for the Agogwe and "smelliest" for the Sheepsquatch). Kids will find this a treasure trove of monsters from around the globe. The brightly colored, almost neon illustrations skew cute and approachable rather than spooky, which hits just right for younger elementary school children who aren't ready for horror and gore. A full-page map at the end of the book shows each monster superimposed on its country of origin. There are few humans depicted here, but those at the Monsterlovers Headquarters are diverse. A blue-haired, tan-skinned child with ponytails is the spokesperson and primary narrator. (This book was reviewed digitally.) A world of fun for budding cryptozoologists. (Informational picture book. 5-7)

COPYRIGHT(2023) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.